Following the temporary pushback, the orchestra musicians’ contract is now set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday|@andris_nelsons|X

The Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) and its musicians’ union have bought themselves two more days to reach a new labor deal, avoiding an immediate strike.

The musicians had voted to authorize a walkout after their three-year contract expired Sunday night. Instead, both sides agreed to keep the existing agreement in place until 11:59 p.m. Tuesday.

The extension gives negotiators more time to settle their differences and prevent what would have been the first strike in the orchestra’s 145-year history. The deal still needs approval from the Boston Musicians’ Association and the orchestra’s Players’ Committee.

Tensions have risen since March, when BSO management announced plans to remove music director Andris Nelsons next summer after his 13-season tenure.

The orchestra’s new season is set to begin September 17.